Bush Commutes Libby's Prison Term

Updated: President George W. Bush has commuted Lewis “Scooter” Libby’s prison term for obstructing justice in the case over U.S. government officials allegedly leaking the identity of CIA agent Valerie Plame.

The 2 1/2 year prison term was “excessive,” according to the president, who acted after a federal appeals court today refused to permit Libby, 56, to remain free while he is appealing his sentence, reports Bloomberg.

“My decision to commute his prison sentence leaves in place a harsh punishment for Mr. Libby,” Bush said in a written statement printed by the Washington Post. “The consequences of his felony conviction on his former life as a lawyer, public servant, and private citizen will be long-lasting.”

Although he will now serve no prison time in the case, Libby apparently still must pay a $250,000 fine.